Interconnection Process

The interconnection process refers to the steps DTE requires solar installers to follow when installing private solar systems. Following these steps helps ensure the project is safely connected to the grid.

If the application, fee, customer paperwork, engineering drawings, installation, and Parallel Operating Agreement (POA) are all completed in a timely manner, the process typically takes 5-6 weeks for a Category 1 or 2 project. Category 3-5 project timelines depend on the size of the project and if they are export versus non-export projects. Please refer to the Category Requirements documents listed above for more detailed information regarding timelines.

If the customer’s installer completed the application, the installer will be able to log in to the PowerClerk website and give their client status updates on the application. The installer also has the ability to grant PowerClerk access to the customer. If the customer completed the application through PowerClerk, they can use their user ID and password to log in and check the status. If you still have questions, please call 313.235.4333.

A POA is a required legal agreement between the customer and DTE that explains that both parties will operate their respective systems safely. Without a signed POA, the customer’s system is subject to shut-off.

A POA is required to be signed prior to a DTE site visit. Once a project reaches this stage in the process, a POA will be emailed to the customer from DocuSign for electronic signature. If necessary, DTE can also mail a hardcopy of the agreement to the customer for signature.

The customer does not need to be present so long as all equipment is outside and accessible by DTE field technicians. The panels should be clear and free of any debris (snow, leaves, etc.), the inverter should be on and the AC disconnect switch should be in the "OFF" position.

If the site visit is successful and the system passes inspection, the AC disconnect switch will be left in the "ON" position and the system will be operational. If the system fails the site inspection, the customer and installer will receive an email from DTE identifying the issues. Once the issues have been addressed, the customer must notify DTE to request a second site visit.

No. The AC disconnect MUST be left in the "OFF" position until the site passes DTE’s inspection and testing. DTE personnel will turn your switch to “ON” if the system passes. It is illegal to connect to the grid without approval and would violate Michigan rules and regulations and cause safety issues. Furthermore, connecting to the grid before a solar system is tested and approved by DTE personnel may cause the generated energy from the solar system to be measured as inflow energy resulting in a higher than usual monthly bill. The site visit includes properly configuring your meter to be able to measure both inflow and outflow energy.

This is done for safety reasons to protect the DTE field technician operating on the system, the customer and emergency services. The AC disconnect switch and the meter MUST be within 5 feet of each other for the technician to be able to safely operate on them at the same time. Also, emergency services personnel will be able to isolate the solar system in case of an emergency because they are familiar with the location of the meter.

The DTE Interconnection queue list can be found here. DTE will update this file no less than once per quarter.

Pursuant to DTE’s rules approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission, any customer that moves premises will have to fill out a new interconnection application ($50 fee applies). Rider 16 states, "A customer that elects to discontinue taking service under this rider or whose net metering service is terminated for any reason and subsequently wishes to reenroll must reapply as a new customer subject to program size limitations and outstanding applications." Given that DTE’s net metering program is closed to new customer applications submitted on or after May 9, 2019, the customer who moves premises must submit a new application under the Company’s Rider 18 program. See the Interconnection Process illustration for more information. If you are an existing Rider 18 customer and decide to take your solar panels to your new residence, the same rules apply and a new application must be submitted.

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